Press release
UNESCO Director-General condemns killing of journalist Issam Abdallah in Lebanon
I condemn the killing of Issam Abdallah. The protection of journalists as civilians is a requirement under international law, including UN Security Council Resolution 2222/2015 on the protection of journalists, media professionals and associated personnel in situations of conflict. I call for a full and transparent investigation to determine the circumstances of this tragedy.
Issam Abdallah worked as a videographer for the Reuters news agency. He was killed on 13 October during a shelling attack near Alma al Chaab, in southern Lebanon, while covering clashes between the Israeli Defense Force and Hezbollah. Other journalists from international news agencies and outlets were also injured at the same time.
UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
The original version of this text was published on 16 October 2023. This text was updated on 7 October 2024, following new information received from UNESCO's accredited partners regarding the circumstances.
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